The Nation Media Group and Huawei on Tuesday held the Leap Job Fair 2025 at the University of Nairobi in which Discussions on how to bridge the unemployment gap dominated the event.
Over 60 companies attended the event aimed at connecting young professionals and students with career opportunities while fostering partnerships between industry leaders and emerging talent to drive Kenya’s digital transformation.
Employers from a wide range of fields, including banking, manufacturing, telecommunications and hospitality, were present. Several of them offered advice to the youths on job applications and career development.
From fresh graduates to experienced professionals, the event drew a diverse crowd, all eager to engage potential employers and gain insights into the job market.
Nation Media Group (NMG) CEO Geoffrey Odundo said the media company has invested in diverse portfolio of youth-focused initiatives aimed at empowering the youth.
“Over the years, we have run a number of youth-centred programmes including My Network, the High Schooler, G3 and The Trend. Another of our flagship initiatives is Scale Up Africa, which brings stakeholders to reflect and empower young people with skills that they need for employment or successful entrepreneurship,” Mr Odundo said.
DP Kindiki: At least 6 in every 10 youth in Kenya are unemployed and lack professional training
“Be bold and ask questions and be curious. For our partners and companies, thank you for being part of our shared vision as you are not only scouting for talent but also investing in Kenya's future by opening your doors to the bright minds,” he said.
The Fair brought together over 75 Chinese companies to engage with young job seekers, employers, Industry experts and the public sector in a mentorship, networking and exposure situation.
Participants at the Leap Job Fair organised by Nation Media Group and Huawei at the University of Nairobi on July 8, 2025.
Photo credit: Bonface Bogita | Nation Media Group
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who was the chief guest, asked development partners to borrow from the NMG and Huawei approach.
“The quality of Kenya's talent is one of the key reasons why Kenya is seen as a gateway to Africa, a regional hub and a leader in industries like technology. I believe it is also the reason why there are so many Chinese companies who are active in Kenya and who are creating so many jobs here, for which I want to thank the Kenya and China Economic and Trade Association and their members," he said.
Huawei Kenya CEO Gavin Gao noted that the ICT sector is growing rapidly and offers diverse opportunities in the job market.
“We are providing advanced skills through our ICT academy training over 7,000 students per year and we are providing more basic digital skills across 39 counties. We have signed an MOU in 2023 with the state department of ICT and TVETS and partnerships with over 60 universities,” he said.
Also present at the event were Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan and Mr Yu Xiaodong, Chairman, Kenya-China Economic and Trade Association.
